Best Pool Hotels in Playa del Carmen

Sandwiched between the Asian-influenced Banyan Tree Mayakoba and the sensual Rosewood Mayakoba, this member of the AccorHotels family upholds its brand's standards along this luxurious stretch of sand just north of Playa del Carmen. The property houses 401 guest rooms and suites, all of which come outfitted in tropical-inspired decor, spacious soaking tubs, LCD televisions and Le Labo toiletries. The resort, which is nestled within 240 acres of tropical forest, also sits next to the PGA Championship El Camaleón golf course. Additionally, the property features the 37,000-square-foot Willow Stream Spa and three on-site restaurants (not including the two grab-and-go cafes, the two pool bars and the lobby lounge). And if you're traveling with children, take them to the Kids Club (for ages 4 to 12), where they can spend their days making piñatas or origami souvenirs. To make the most of your stay at the Fairmont Mayakoba, Riviera Maya, consider booking one of the resort's promotional packages. But be careful: Some guests warn that the property's high food and drink prices can quickly raise your final bill.

Generations Riviera Maya by Karisma is an all-suite, all-inclusive resort that sits about halfway between Playa del Carmen and Cancun on the eastern coast of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula. The beachfront resort offers 162 suites, all with large balconies or terraces. Some larger suites are equipped with swim-up balconies that connect to the infinity pool. Guests are complimentary of the spacious accommodations and also praise the customer service and variety of food found at the restaurants. Generations Riviera Maya boasts five dining spots that serve Mexican, Mediterranean and Asian cuisine, as well as several bars – one of which is a swim-up bar. The resort welcomes children, and the hotel's Eko Kids Club offers supervised games and enrichment activities for guests ages 4 to 12. Both kids and adults will enjoy the hotel's infinity pool that stretches along the length of the resort, as well as the Jacuzzis available in every suite. Although guests were overwhelmingly positive of the resort's pools and restaurants, some were critical of the property's small, rocky beach. Next to the resort are two of Karisma's other Riviera Maya properties, El Dorado Casitas Royale and El Dorado Royale, and guests ages 18 and older can use the facilities at both of these locations.

Sharing oceanfront real estate with its sibling the Hotel Riu Palace Mexico, the all-inclusive Hotel Riu Palace Riviera Maya offers guests access to the pristine Playacar beaches of Playa del Carmen and all the amenities of the Riu Palace complex. Just outside their guest rooms, travelers will find six different restaurants, five bars, the Renova Spa, two pools (including a children's pool) and activities like tennis, kayaking and volleyball. But what sets this Hotel Riu Palace Riviera Maya apart from its sister property is its sweeping views and top-notch service. The property's 400 rooms provide impressive sea views from their private balconies or terraces; you can enjoy the scenery with a drink in hand thanks to the in-suite liquor dispensers. All guest rooms also feature perks like complimentary Wi-Fi and satellite TVs. Plus previous visitors rave that the employees at this RIU property are extremely friendly – some travelers said Hotel Riu Palace Riviera Maya's staff members went out of their way to make everything even more enjoyable.

Rosewood Mayakoba fully immerses guests in the Riviera Maya's beauty through its architecture and design. Not only is it flanked by the region's famed crystalline sands and lush jungle, the resort is also constructed from local materials, such as Yucatan limestone and regional wood. Visitors especially praise the private outdoor deck and heated plunge pool attached to each of the property's 129 suites. And the welcome tequila, daily restocked fruit bowl and personal butler services exemplify an above-par level of hospitality. The culinary offerings at Rosewood Mayakoba's three restaurants are another point of praise among recent guests. And, despite their high price tags, visitors say the unique treatments at Sense, A Rosewood Spa are well worth the indulgence. Once you're feeling relaxed, perfect your swing at the adjacent El Camaleon golf course or soak up your surroundings with a kayaking or snorkeling adventure. You'll find this Rosewood outpost just north of downtown Playa del Carmen in the Mayakoba resort complex.

Nestled in the upscale Playacar area just south of downtown Playa del Carmen, the all-inclusive Hotel Riu Palace Mexico boasts all of the key ingredients for a relaxing Mexican escape. The expansive, palm-lined property – which also encompasses the Hotel Riu Palace Mexico's sister property, the Hotel Riu Palace Riviera Maya – features a variety of amenities, including four pools, six a la carte dining options (plus buffet-style eateries), the Renova Spa and the RiuLand kid's program. Plus the Hotel Riu Palace Mexico complex sits just steps from 18 holes of golf and soft sands that lead to the Caribbean Sea. What's more, this RIU property's guest rooms earn high marks from recent visitors. All 434 rooms come equipped with satellite TVs, minibars, complimentary Wi-Fi, private balconies or terraces, and bathtubs.

Easily recognized by its bright yellow exterior, The Royal Haciendas all-inclusive resort overlooks the Caribbean Sea from its seat on the north end of Playa del Carmen. Guests are consistently impressed by the accommodations here; visitors have their choice of a junior, one-bedroom or two-bedroom suite, although previous guests recommend opting for more space in order to have access to a private whirlpool tub and full kitchen. All suites feature a private balcony overlooking the ocean, ample living space and TVs with DVD players. Meanwhile, The Royal Haciendas all-inclusive package grants unlimited access to the resort's two restaurants, bars and ample on-site facilities (like six pools, whirlpools, three tennis courts and nonmotorized water sports equipment). However, the customer service receives mixed reviews from past visitors; some say the customer service was not on par with other resorts in the area, while others describe the staff as pleasant and accommodating.

With roughly 5 miles separating The Fives Azul Beach Resort Playa del Carmen from Playa del Carmen's busy downtown area, this property lures travelers with the promise of seclusion. Although Azul Beach Resort rubs elbows with esteemed competitors – such as the Banyan Tree Mayakoba and the Fairmont Mayakoba – along the resort town's northern shoreline, this property can easily rest on its own laurels. Housing 571 one-, two- and three-bedroom suites (all equipped with flat-screen TVs, spacious bathrooms and private balconies or terraces), Azul Beach Resort makes a great home base for group travelers. More active vacationers can take advantage of the resort's organized scuba diving, horseback riding or golf packages, and those in need of some R&R can relax with a beachfront massage or a private yoga session (for an additional fee). For even more pampering, guests can indulge in a treatment at Vassa Spa, which offers therapies like aromatherapy massages and facials. Meanwhile, guests say that the resort's swimming pools, My Gym play area at Azulitos Playhouse and Extreme Breeze Teens Club activities meet family expectations. Plus, with nine restaurants serving globally inspired fare, this property caters to just about any palate.

For ample activities and facilities, consider staying at the Ocean Riviera Paradise. This resort in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico, boasts a shopping center, a spa, a bowling alley, a nightclub, 10 restaurants and 13 meeting rooms, among other amenities. Parents were especially impressed with the variety of activities in the Daisy Club (for kids ages 4 to 12) and the Teen Club (for teens between 13 and 17). If you'd rather spend your vacation soaking up some sun, lounge by one of five outdoor pools or rent water sports equipment (for an extra fee) at the beach. When you're ready to retire for the evening, make your way to your spacious suite. Housed in four areas – Daisy (for families), Privilege (a VIP section), Edén (which is by the beach) and El Beso (an adults-only spot) – all accommodations feature seating areas with sleeper sofas, bathrooms with rain showers and whirlpool tubs, and balconies or terraces. What's more, suite rates are all-inclusive, covering conveniences like daily parking, Wi-Fi access, butler service and all meals and drinks. But despite the resort's positives, some previous visitors bemoaned the musty smells in their suites, as well as the beach's rocky surface.

This 85-acre all-inclusive property approximately 6 miles northeast of central Playa del Carmen garners rave reviews from its guests. The accommodations impress with whirlpool tubs, 42-inch plasma-screen TVs and more than 1,100 square feet of space. Meanwhile, guests consistently praise the resort's excellent customer service, its gourmet cuisine, and its revitalizing spa services. During your stay, you can sign up for invigorating treatments like the Mayan Jade Facial or the Coffee & Cocoa Experience. For extra pampering, consider splurging for the Riviera Maya Spa Package, which includes spa credits and ecotours, among other perks. If you're more interested in hitting the links or a scuba expedition, consider one of the resorts other popular packages, all of which include meals at the property's eight restaurants and other privileges, such as 24-hour concierge services, snokeling tours and even mixology classes. And if you're traveling with kids in tow, send them over to the Grand Velas Kids' or Teens' Club – they'll have plenty of opportunities to meet new friends while you're catching up on some R&R. Plus, since the hotel is under the Preferred umbrella, members of the I Prefer program can earn or redeem points here.

Catching up on some quality rest and relaxation comes naturally to guests staying at the Blue Diamond Riviera Maya. This relatively small adults-only resort – which has just 128 rooms and suites – sprawls across beige sands and sits roughly 6 miles north of central Playa del Carmen. Blue Diamond Riviera Maya keeps things simple and classy – guest suites come outfitted in crisp, white decor with rich wood accents, floor-to-ceiling windows and a terrace or garden, not to mention high-end amenities like outdoor bathtubs, 42-inch flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi, and in some rooms, private plunge pools. Guests love the look and feel of Blue Diamond Riviera Maya, but they're even more impressed by all that's included in the room rate. A stay at this all-inclusive resort covers not only access to three pools, three restaurants and beachfront concierge services, but also includes access to an 18-hole golf course, yoga classes and a fitness center. What's more, the property features the Spa by Blue Diamond, which offers unique therapies like seaweed wraps and hot stone massages.

Stretched across northern Playa del Carmen's sands alongside its sister resort, Paradisus Playa del Carmen La Perla, Paradisus Playa del Carmen La Esmeralda earns high praise from guests for its prime beach access, family-friendly atmosphere and elegant appearance. The resort's 488 suites each feature separate bedroom and living areas, as well as 40-inch flat-screen TVs, minibars, 24-hour room service and complimentary Wi-Fi access. If you're traveling with kids, stay in a Family Concierge suite, which comes appointed with extras like children's bed and bath amenities and video game consoles (upon request) – not to mention a private Jacuzzi. The kids club is also a hit with previous visitors: While adults relax at the YHI Spa or indulge in a poolside cocktail at the swim-up bar, kids can enjoy some fun on the beach or make new friends in the Kids Zone. Introduced in December 2018, the Splash Water Park is another diversion your young ones will love. And at the end of the day, 14 restaurants and plethora of bars and lounges will satisfy a wide variety of cravings.

Occupying a large swath of coastline about 6 miles south of Playa del Carmen, the Occidental at Xcaret Destination by Barcelo meets the needs of travelers seeking a no muss, no fuss vacation: Once here, there's no reason to leave. This all-inclusive resort – surrounded by the Xcaret Park's verdant greenery – offers easy access to the Riviera Maya's coveted coastline, as well as a bevy of outdoor activities. Guests can spend their days lounging by one of seven swimming pools, perfecting their short game on the mini-golf course and practicing their swing on the tennis courts. Meanwhile, 11 on-site restaurants will satisfy just about any appetite, and the supervised kids club will ensure that younger visitors have as much fun as their parents. And as far as accommodations go, all guest rooms offer standard amenities such as minibars, cable TVs and coffee makers. Past visitors recommend requesting a room near the pools; these lodging options are not affected by late-night noise and are close to many of the property's on-site amenities.

A member of the Princess Resorts family, Grand Riviera Princess is a vacation destination unto itself. Stretching out along the Caribbean coast just north of Playa del Carmen, this expansive all-inclusive property features 16 swimming pools, six tennis courts, a fitness and spa complex and a slew of restaurants and bars. Couple that with suites stocked with plasma TVs, minibars and private terraces or balconies, and you'll be hard-pressed to find a reason to leave. Recent guests express positive opinions about the resort, describing the property as beautiful, the on-site cuisine as enjoyable and the customer service as exceeding expectations; however, several guests pointed out that the pools are in need of minor repairs. What's more, access to the resort's facilities, food and activities (like nonmotorized water sports, archery and kid-friendly entertainment) are all included in the nightly rate.

The sprawling, all-inclusive Sandos Playacar Beach Resort has something for everyone. This hotel, which is just south of Playa del Carmen, is split into four distinct sections so travelers can tailor their vacation for the best fit. Guests have the choice of bunking down in the Royal Elite Haciendas, the Select Club Adults Only area, the Family Section or the Beach Section. All accommodations are equipped with minibars, cable TVs and balconies or terraces, but each section offers extra amenities that cater to their clientele. Recent visitors commend the beautiful accommodations and stellar service at Sandos Playacar. As for activities, younger ones can take advantage of the several pools and kids and teens clubs, while grown-ups enjoy the exclusive adults-only pool, swim-up bar and Spa Sandos. Once you're hungry, sit down at one of seven on-site restaurants, with menus ranging from classic Italian cuisine to Mexican fusion (meals are covered in the all-inclusive rate). Recent guests lauded the numerous nightlife and activity options for all ages, though the service received mixed reviews.

Consistently lauded by publications like Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler, this stylish member of the Viceroy Resorts clan has a long-standing reputation to uphold. And aside from a few complaints about high room rates, Viceroy Riviera Maya also wins the hearts of its guests. Surrounded by white sands and verdant jungle – just north of downtown Playa del Carmen – this intimate resort encompasses 41 villa-style accommodations designed to mirror the Riviera Maya's impressive landscape. Rooms are appointed with private plunge pools and outdoor rain showers and hammocks, plus creature comforts like Bose radios and satellite TVs. Recent guests recommend dining alfresco at Coral Grill & Bar, which pairs seaside scenery with enticing dishes like traditional tortilla soup and homemade paella. But past patrons assure you won't be disappointed with a meal at La Marea Restaurant, which offers a sophisticated setting and flavorful seafood dishes. And though the therapeutic massages and revitalizing body treatments at the Spa at Viceroy Riviera Maya come attached to steep price tags, past guests assure the services are well worth the extra cost.

Thanks to its downtown Playa del Carmen location, this hotel grants guests easy access to both the beach and area bars. Travelers can walk to the Riviera Maya's soft sands for some sun and then stroll over to Playa del Carmen's Fifth Avenue, home to the city's most-loved shops, restaurants and nightlife venues. But that's not the only reason why travelers rave about this adults-only resort: Past guests compliment the hospitable staff, the quality of the food served at the resort's seven restaurants and the variety of amenities available in property's all-inclusive room rates. When nighttime rolls around, you'll bed down in spacious accommodations outfitted with two-person Jacuzzis, LCD satellite TVs, Wi-Fi access and private terraces, balconies or patios. Some suites also boast direct beach or swim-up pool access. To save some coin, members of the Hilton Honors rewards program can cash in points here.

Located in the upscale Playacar neighborhood of southern Playa del Carmen, Playacar Palace earns rave reviews from past guests for its quality customer service. Many travelers credit the resort's friendly employees with making Playacar Palace feel truly palatial. The 201 guest rooms and suites feature smart TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi, liquor dispensers, and, in some cases, personal Jacuzzi tubs and private balconies. But travelers don't need to spend much time in their rooms: Playacar Palace cozies up to an expansive stretch of Riviera Maya shoreline, tempting guests out of their abode with a large pool, three restaurants and soothing spa treatments at the Awe Spa. Playacar Palace guests can also take advantage of the nearby Hard Rock Golf Club Riviera Maya. 

With unique privileges like exclusive villa concierge service and fresh fruit upon arrival, Royal Hideaway Playacar – Adults Only takes extra steps to ensure a memorable experience, and past guests said it delivers. Those who have stayed at this all-inclusive resort cite the excellent customer service as a reason to return. With more than 200 accommodations, Royal Hideaway is smaller than other resorts set in Playa del Carmen's Playacar neighborhood. However, each guest room and suite is appointed with traditional Mexican design elements, a satellite television, a coffee maker and a private balcony or terrace. Royal Hideaway's room rates also include access to six pools, two tennis courts, a variety of land activities and water sports (including kayaking, windsurfing and sailing), a fitness center and evening entertainment. Plus, meals, drinks and snacks at the resort's six a la carte restaurants won't rack up your tab. Royal Hideaway also houses a full-service spa, though treatments are not covered in the all-inclusive rate. 

Encompassing 71 acres of seafront property a few miles north of Playa del Carmen, Secrets Capri Riviera Cancun provides a serene environment for a couple's escape. At this adults-only member of the AMResorts family, guests are treated to Secrets' Unlimited-Luxury privileges, which include 24-hour private concierge services and limitless drinks and meals at the resort's six restaurants, four bars and lounges and in-house cafe. Past guests especially rave about the hospitable and helpful hotel staff, claiming staff members go above and beyond to cater to guests' needs. Each room is appointed with an elegant four-poster bed, a Mediterranean-inspired color scheme and a private balcony or terrace. Secrets Capri's nightly rates also include access to on-site recreation facilities, such as the 16,000-square-foot swimming pool, a wide swath of Riviera Maya beachfront and a variety of activities like yoga, tequila tastings and Spanish lessons. Plus, guests of Secrets Capri Riviera Cancun can enjoy complimentary use of the nearby Grand Coral Riviera Maya golf course. You can also indulge in a massage at the 14,000-square-foot Secrets Spa by Pevonia, but treatments are not covered in the all-inclusive package.

If you're looking to take advantage of Riviera Maya's party-hard reputation, this probably isn't the right resort for you. But if you're craving a relaxing escape, the atmosphere at Hacienda Tres Ríos Resort will suit you well. Surrounded by 326 acres of parkland (150 acres of which is a nature preserve) just about 8 miles north of Playa del Carmen, this resort boasts guest rooms outfitted in modern Mexican decor. In fact, Hacienda Tres Ríos's mahogany furnishings and marble floors are just one of the reasons behind the resort's eco-friendly status. Plus, the property's sustainable air conditioning and water filtering systems help protect the 131 animal species and 120 types of flora that call this area home. Accommodations feature flat-screen satellite TVs, and most are appointed with a Jacuzzi. What's more, the all-inclusive resort grants access to two swimming pools, a private beach, fitness classes and unlimited food at the seven on-site restaurants at no additional fee. And though it will cost you extra, the Ya’ax Che Spa offers traveler-approved body treatments and massages. Keep in mind, though, that recent travelers thought the sales presentation and staff were a bit aggressive, and many were disappointed with the on-site beach.

Those unwilling to share their precious vacation space with families can rejoice: the Platinum Yucatán Princess is strictly an adults-only property. Even if it did allow children, families may not find this all-inclusive resort appealing. The property features an ultra-contemporary design, has more bars than restaurants (eight bars compared to six eateries), and a nightclub. Not to mention, most in-room bathrooms are separated by not-so-private frosted glass. Couples, however, love this property, so much so that there's a class of rooms called the honeymoon suites, which come with a bottle of sparkling wine and feature hydromassage tubs on the terraces. Standard suites are still spacious, outfitted with sofa beds and iPod docking stations, as well as coffee makers, flat-screen TVs, minibars stocked daily and a balcony or terrace of their own. Some guests, however, recommend splurging for a swim-up room, which offers terraces connected to one of the property's pools. Others say if you're looking for a quiet experience, book away from the noisy main pool. The resort is also steps away from the beach, but some travelers suggest venturing to other nearby beaches, as they said the one in front of the hotel is loaded with seaweed. You can find the Platinum Yucatan Princess in Playa del Carmen, about 31 miles south of Cancun International Airport.

In case the "Au Naturel" in its name didn't tip you off, this adults-only all-inclusive is a nudist resort. If this is the type of vacation you've been searching for, you're in luck because you can do just about anything in the nude here. Everything from activities to dining can be enjoyed without clothes. And with just 43 suites, past guests said the property is intimate enough that you won't feel self-conscious embracing the nudist concept. Plus, the resort is shaded by a mangrove jungle and protected by 24-hour security to deter any interlopers. Rooms are outfitted with Jacuzzis for two, minibars, iPod docking stations and 42-inch plasma TVs. Recent visitors recommended booking a first-floor swim-up suite, where you'll have access to the pool right outside your terrace. When you're not relaxing by the pool or getting a massage at the beach, sign up for morning yoga or the resort's evening theme parties. If you're in the mood to venture off the property, you can head next door to the El Dorado Seaside Suites, but keep in mind that you must be clothed once you're off Hidden Beach property. At the neighboring hotel, you'll have access to El Dorado's 10 restaurants. But if you prefer to dine sans clothes, head back to Hidden Beach. Past guests say the food at the La Vista Restaurant is delicious, especially the breakfast and lunch menu. You'll find Hidden Beach on Kantenah Bay, about 19 miles south of Playa del Carmen on Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula. 

Rubbing elbows with its sister property, the Grand Riviera Princess, the all-inclusive Grand Sunset Princess makes a great choice for families and larger groups because of its lofty accommodations. And thanks to the property's Princess Resort ties, guests can take advantage of seven a la carte restaurants, two buffets, 10 bars, 12 swimming pools (including four specifically designed for children) and a spa complex housed on the Grand Princess property before bedding down in spacious suites. Travelers who have previously hung their hats in Sunset's suites compliment the resort's atmosphere, describing the decor as elegant. Separate living areas and terraces provide plenty of space to stretch out, while amenities like minibars, satellite TVs and – in some suites –Jacuzzi tubs add an extra dose of luxury. (Just be aware that the larger Laguna Villa Suite and Platinum Suite require a four-night minimum stay and the Junior Suite Deluxe Swimout and the Yucatan Platinum suites are for adults only.)

Situated roughly 5 miles north of central Playa del Carmen above powdery, white sands, Le Rêve's 28 suites attract travelers craving a quiet, intimate Riviera Maya escape. Recent guests caution that rooms come attached to high rates, but many agree that a stay here is well worth the price. Each suite comes appointed with rich wood furnishings, handmade Mexican tiles, oversized bathrooms with rainfall showers and balconies that overlook private gardens or the Caribbean Sea. The public areas are just as inviting: Le Rêve boasts an expansive infinity pool that flanks the Caribbean Sea. Guests can also appreciate the view while enjoying a yoga lesson or rejuvenating treatment at the spa. But many recent visitors say that the gourmet Mexican cuisine served at Merlot Restaurant & Bar was the main highlight of their visit.

Sitting next to its sister property – the adults-only Blue Diamond Riviera Maya – along secluded sands just a few miles north of Playa del Carmen, BlueBay Grand Esmeralda caters to guests of all ages. The resort's 979 rooms are particularly comfortable for families, with ample space for parents and kids, as well as flat-screen TVs, minibars and Wi-Fi access (for an additional charge). BlueBay Grand Esmeralda also makes a great home base for beachcombers looking to sprawl along the sand, while the three on-site pools (one of which was created especially for kids) provide an idyllic setting for sunbathing. For more active travelers, BlueBay Grand Esmeralda features tennis courts and pool volleyball. And for those in need of a little extra R&R, the on-site BlueBay Spa boasts a wide range of soothing treatments. Meanwhile, the resort's seven restaurants ensure that everyone's palate is pleased. While a spectrum of cuisine options is a plus for many guests, the highlight of a stay this property is the excellent customer service. However, a few outspoken guests do caution that the guest rooms are starting to show their age.